New oncologist joins Spencer Hospital team

Spencer Hospital's Abben Cancer Center recently announced the hiring of Dr. Luis Cuervo, a distinguished medical oncologist, as part of an unprecedented collaboration with the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Dr. Cuervo will provide full-time medical oncology services at Abben Cancer Center and will also hold the esteemed title of associate professor at the University of Iowa. This collaboration will bring advanced practice standards and exceptional oncology care to our region.

"The commitment of Abben Cancer Center to providing exceptional oncology care in rural communities is truly impressive," Dr. Cuervo said in a news release. "This partnership will provide our patients with enhanced resources and support through the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, allowing us to make a significant impact in the fight against cancer in northwest Iowa."

With Iowa having the second-highest cancer incidence in the U.S., rural populations experience higher cancer mortality rates, making access to quality cancer care essential. This groundbreaking partnership, highlighted by the hiring of Dr. Cuervo, between the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and Abben Cancer Center aims to enhance medical oncology care across northwest Iowa.

Dr. Cuervo brings a wealth of experience to Abben Cancer Center. He completed his medical training at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and his residency at Scott and White Hospital in Temple. Board-certified in internal medicine, Dr. Cuervo specializes in medical oncology and hematology. His background includes service as a field surgeon in Iraq with the Army National Guard, and he holds a Master's Degree in counseling, having previously worked with at-risk youth.

At Abben Cancer Center, Dr. Cuervo will work alongside Dr. D.B. Nguyen, an accomplished radiation oncologist with Ivy League training. Dr. Nguyen graduated Magna Cum Laude with highest honors in electronics and optics before earning a scholarship to Dartmouth Medical School. He completed a post-doctoral fellowship in radiation oncology at Yale and was awarded a National Science Foundation NATO post-doctoral Fellowship. Dr. Nguyen's residency in internal medicine and radiation oncology was also completed at Yale University School of Medicine. His distinguished career features significant achievements and international experience, underscoring his dedication to advancing cancer care.